He lost his clan, but he found his one true love.

He is chased through the night, persecuted in his own clan. One day, he had it all; riches, power, people to care for him. The next, he is freezing outside a local tavern, a beggar in his own clan. Gavin Forsyth is not a lovable, fair laird. He is young, arrogant, and greedy. However, when the world turns against him, and he is found in unfamiliar territory, he will soon realize he must change his ways.

Maura, a village girl, is the only one who takes pity of him, but Gavin learns quickly that kindness comes at a price. He will have to work to provide for himself. There are conflicts, challenges, and a girl who will do anything but coax him. He will soon find out that Maura is more than a hardworking youth. She has ambitions, emotional strength, and a heart that he would gladly fight for.

Gavin is a wanted laird, Maura is a mere barmaid. Their affection has limits, and their love only manifests through stolen kisses. Gavin becomes a better man, but the guilt of the past is unbearable. He wants to protect Maura from it, although he knows the truth will break them apart. In the end, he will have to bleed to take back his castle, and bleed to forget his one true love.